Gwadar: Pakistan’s Aspirational “New Dubai”—Promise, Progress, and Challenges
Gwadar, a coastal city in the southwestern province of Balochistan, is often hailed as the “new Dubai” of Pakistan. This vision is rooted in its geostrategic location, vast development potential, and its role as the crown jewel of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). While the comparison to Dubai reflects ambition and vision, it is crucial […]
Pakistan Announces 20% Hike in Defence Budget Amid India Tensions; Overall Federal Spending Cut by 7% for FY 2025–26
ISLAMABAD, June 10 – The Government of Pakistan has announced a significant 20% increase in defence spending for the fiscal year 2025–26 following recent military tensions with India. Simultaneously, the government has reduced overall federal expenditure by 7%, aligning with fiscal consolidation efforts under its ongoing agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Key Budget […]
China and Iran’s $400 Billion Deal: A Strategic Shift in the Middle East
In a groundbreaking move that could reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, China and Iran signed a 25-year strategic partnership agreement in March 2021, involving $400 billion in Chinese investments across multiple Iranian sectors. This monumental pact, forged in Tehran between China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Iran’s then-Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, signals […]
Mohmand Dam: Powering a Sustainable Future for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan
In the heart of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistan is undertaking one of its most ambitious infrastructure projects in recent decades — the Mohmand Dam. This multi-purpose initiative promises to reshape the region’s water management capabilities, boost agricultural output, and strengthen Pakistan’s energy security through clean, renewable power. Strategic Location on the Swat River The Mohmand […]
Pakistan Launches First Freight Train to Russia via INSTC: A Strategic Shift in Trade and Connectivity
In a historic development poised to redefine regional trade dynamics, Pakistan is set to launch its first freight train to Russia on June 22, 2025, from Lahore. This landmark move officially integrates Pakistan into the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) — a strategic, multimodal trade network linking South Asia to Russia and Europe through Central […]
The AI Takeover of Global Transport: Are We Witnessing a New Industrial Revolution?
The world is shifting gears—and fast. Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a buzzword confined to labs and software—it’s now in the driver’s seat of the world’s trade and transport systems. Imagine fleets of driverless trucks racing across continents, cargo ships navigating oceans with no crew, and ports that unload goods before a human even […]
The War Is Not What You See: Media as the New Battlefield in Global Conflict
In the contemporary era, the dynamics of warfare have expanded far beyond traditional battlefields. While physical conflicts continue to unfold around the world, another, less visible war is being waged—a war over perception, truth, and influence. The statement “real war is media” captures a powerful reality: media has become an active arena of conflict, shaping […]
Understanding the Context Behind Recent Developments Between Israel and Iran
In recent days, international attention has shifted toward escalating tensions in the Middle East following Israel’s decision to carry out a series of airstrikes in Iran. While the events themselves have triggered widespread reaction, this article aims to neutrally examine the motivations, regional context, and wider global impact—without placing blame or promoting any partisan stance. […]
A New Era of Trade: Iraq Launches TIR System with Historic Ceremony in Baghdad
Baghdad, 4 June 2025 (Source-IRU) In a monumental stride towards regional connectivity and global trade integration, Iraq has officially launched the TIR (Transports Internationaux Routiers) system, marking a new chapter for its logistics sector and economic development. The launch ceremony, held in Baghdad, was attended by senior government officials, private sector leaders, and international partners […]
Patterns of Correlation between Aviation, Education, and Economic Growth in Developing Economies
Article Written by Dr. Wali Mughni (PhD, FRAeS, SBt) Chairman IRTCoP Aviation Chapter. Open PDF file
